Two Ways: Patent Bow Belt

Belt: Kate Spade Abstract Bow Belt ($96)

From Left, Coat: Vanessa Bruno Princess Coat ($430) Earrings: Cone Stone Studs ($48) Bag: Emma Book Clutch ($325) Tights: DKNY Super Opaque Tights ($15) Shoes: Calvin Klein Fayanna Pump ($87) Top: Rebecca Taylor Tweed Peplum ($350) Skirt: Telegraph Pencil Skirt ($138)

From Right, Bag: Magid Long Box Clutch ($74) Shoes: Peep Toe Satin Sandals ($60) Earrings: Ben Amun Deco Chandelier Earrings ($135) Bracelets: Carolee Pearl Bracelet ($65) and Eliot Canori Beacelet ($135) Dress: Arabelle Long Silk Chiffon Dress ($365)

For the Cocktail Party.  I paired the fitted, tweed peplum top with a slightly-longer pencil skirt for a sleek look.  This outfit is perfect for an office cocktail party or a dinner event.  

I would layer the bow belt over the naturally defined waist on the peplum blouse.  I like the mix of tweed, leather and wool, but if you’re searching for something simpler, a black peplum should do the trick.  Here is a sleeveless version and a long sleeve version, both under-$50.

The pale mauve earring with black details is the right mix of sweet and edgy.  The book clutch adds a bit of whimsy to the look.  Should you need a less-expensive option, this grey faux lizard clutch is the perfect choice for $39.  Add the black tights (or not, if you prefer) and a pair of suede pumps, and the look is complete.  

I added this very pretty berry-colored coat, but it’s a bit pricey (and nearly sold out!).  This Victoria’s Secret double breasted coat is a nice alternative for under-$200.

For the makeup, I would wear a berry-colored polish with black liquid liner and hint of lipcolor.  For the hair, I would wear it in a bouncy, teased ponytail with a covered elastic.

For a Formal Event.  With the Inaugural events less than a week away, I know some of you are still struggling to find gowns.  J.CREW is a great place to turn if need be, because they offer quick shipping and easy returns.  Looking for a similar look for less?  This dress from BCBG is $149.

I added the long clutch, because I prefer something more substantial.  But if you’d like something smaller, this clutch in a trapezoid shape is also lovely.

The jewelry is art deco inspired.  I layered a pearl bracelet and a crystal bracelet, as well as a chandelier earring.  Need a cheaper earring? This $33 pair are also nice.

For the hair, I would wear it up in either a classic French twist or a low, curly chignon.  For the makeup, I would paint a red nail (or black if you prefer), a red lip and a good coat of black kajal eyeliner.

For the Office.  Want to wear your bow belt to the office?  I see two ways to make that happen.  A trouser, a long sleeved peplum top and a pointed toe pump.  You can also pull in a slim skirt, a blouson top and a platform pump.  It would also be a great choice if you like to belt cardigans for a more defined waist.